Townsend says better education, jobs, transportation is focus of her campaign

Sarah Townsend is making a run for public office to represent the 31st District in the Virginia House of Delegates. 

The district encompasses portions of Prince William and Fauquier counties. The seat is held by Republican Scott Lingamfelter.

Potomac Local sent a questionnaire to Townsend and she sent us the responses below: 

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PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent?

Townsend: Prioritizing our schools and education system Promoting good paying jobs in our communities Improving transportation and reducing traffic congestion.

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Townsend: Education – As a teacher I have seen first-hand the devastating effects of increased high-stakes testing. We need to reduce the number of standardized tests so our children receive quality classroom time and are not just taught to a test. Improving education can’t be just be rhetoric. We need more people with teaching experience in Richmond advocating for our students.

Jobs – We need to recruit high tech jobs to our area, promote apprenticeships and connect our local businesses with community college so that people have the proper skills to compete for 21st century jobs.

Transportation – We should extend the blue line to Prince William County, extend VRE options, promote tele-commuting, and increase job growth in our community so less people have to travel to Fairfax and DC for work.

PL: From your prospective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Townsend: My job is to be a voice for constituents in Richmond and work to solve issues they face daily. Unlike my opponent, I’ll be willing to compromise to get things done if it benefits my district.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Townsend: I grew up in Prince William County and Fauquier County, which are the two counties within my district. I served as a middle school teacher and professional development instructor and seen first-hand the successes and the changes that are needed in our educational system. I’m also not an entrenched, partisan incumbent politician, like my opponent is.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government? If not, how do you intend on improving communication with your constituency?

Townsend: I believe the average citizen could be better informed, as between the horrible traffic in our region and people working hard to raise their families, there often is not enough time in a day to focus on what is happening in our government. My opponent has abused his power in Richmond, often killing important legislation that would keep our communities safe, like protecting our kids from online sexual predators, without even allowing a vote. I would make myself more available both in the district and in Richmond. I would provide regular updates to constituents and work to make sure legislation is approved or vetoed in the light of day, so that everyone can be aware of what is happening.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they effected you?

Townsend: I have made mistakes in my life, but no major mistake that I am aware of.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you? 

Townsend: I hope to earn their vote because I’m not an entrenched incumbent. I was raised to vote for the person, not the party. In January I witnessed our legislators in Richmond, and how many, including my opponent, prioritize their own interests and partisan agaenda, instead of what’s best for their district. I’ll work with Republicans and Democrats to actually get things done and stand up to anyone who gets in the way.